FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): Eight more properties that were damaged by flooding last June will be bought by the city of Fort Wayne.
Mayor Tom Henry secured a grant with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to purchase the homes, according to a city spokesperson.
Residents who want their homes bought out after repeated flood damage had to submit an application and the city pre-identified homes that suffered from the flood along Fairfield Ditch and the St. Marys River in June 2015.
The properties that have been identified have agreed to an appraisal, and if they agree with the purchase price, the home will be bought. The city will then demolish the home and turn it into green space.
“I continue to be encouraged by the progress we’re making in securing funding to help residents with flood buyouts,” Henry said. “We’re committed to protecting neighborhoods and enhancing the quality of life in our community. Our collective efforts are making a meaningful difference.”
The Board of Public Works approved the grant that totals $600,450. Local funds will make up 25 percent of the grant and the rest is coming from the FEMA grant.
The city will fund $129,112 and the Maumee River Basin Commission will provide $31,000.
Henry announced a similar grant earlier this year that would purchase up to 18 homes in flood-prone areas. Those voluntary buyouts are still processing.
For more information visit the city of Fort Wayne’s website or email questions to FortWayneFloodBuyout@cityoffortwayne.org.
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